Joe E. Lorenz

Joe E. Lorenz, 90, of Cle Elum, passed away on Wednesday, April 17, 2024 at his home. He will be laid to rest with military honors in a private service at Tahoma National Cemetery.

Joe was born on November 7, 1933 in Emporia, Kansas. He spent a few years as a baby in Kansas before his family moved west to California, and it was primarily northern California where he grew up and attended school.  In 1951, Joe left high school and enlisted in the United States Air Force and served during the Korean War before his discharge in November 1953.

Following his return from the service, he completed his high school education and then attended trade school to become a heating and air conditioning technician. Joe spent most of his working life in the HVAC trade and enjoyed what he did for a living. 

In fact, it was his work in the HVAC trade that brought him to Seattle on a job in 1973 where he would meet Ellie Brown.  They hit it off, kept in touch a bit and then their paths diverged for 12 years before they reconnected and started dating in 1985, later marrying in 1989.  They lived in California for many years until 2002 when they retired to Cle Elum.

In retirement, Joe enjoyed working on cars, caring for his house and property and taking many trips to Hawaii. 

Joe is survived by his wife, Ellie; sons Chris and Norman; step-children Justin (Brooke) Wilder, Stacey (Dave) Denson and Mike Wasisco, as well as many grandchildren and great grandchildren, nieces, nephews and friends.  He was preceded in death by his parents and all of his siblings.

Arrangements have been entrusted to Johnston & Williams of Cle Elum. Online condolences may be left for the family at www.johnston-williams.com